"While the algae is filtered we have to make sure that chlorine or chloramine levels are high enough that the water stays disinfected," Hayden said.

The water may taste or smell differently for a few days, but the utility stresses it is safe to drink. Hayden said Hospitals and dialysis centers have been notified to make appropriate changes to water treatment.

"Individuals who may be keeping live fish in either ponds or aquariums may double check to make sure that the disinfectant they’ve using will work with chlorine disinfectant instead of chloramine," Hayden said.

This is isn’t the first time SAWS customers in the northeast have switched sources, but the move is necessary to preserve water quality in Lake Dunlap.